This is very disappointing. We had hoped that by now that a large number of retailers would be represented providing a powerful body that would significantly influence the industry.

BPA is often contacted by independents experiencing problems with products or suppliers, yet the concept of being part of a membership organisation where there is a certain safety in numbers and the chance to talk with a bigger voice doesn't seem to be catching on.

BPA Retail provides a number of specialist benefits such as supplier discounts, business support hotline, legal services, integrated retail software, insurance, promotion on the website and free PR services.